Artist Statement

I’ve been painting even since I can remember. At the beginning of my painting career, I painted solely because I had the talent and capability. At some point my artwork caused a shift in my inner compass. I used to not understand much of my Jewish identity and why is was so special. I would look at a simple Jew and say to myself that he’s just a simple person that serves his creator. But when I painted the scene something inexplicable opened up for me. I began to feel the strong holy connection and holy simplicity of Judaism. My art opened me up and I started to see what was hidden to me before. I began to understand the heart and power of the service to G-d from even a simple Jew as he goes about his regular day. This special feeling I have, is revealed in my works. Therefore, even for those that left Judaism generations before started connecting to their roots through my art. 

I don’t paint for the money, I could paint really quick, scenes that sell quick and easy. But there’s something inside me that tells me not to go there. I can’t resist the urge to paint and bring to life, the life of previous generations. There were many righteous people that were burned in the holocaust, I need to make a memorial for what was. As long as I have the strength, I will continue to use my talents to accomplish this. Why else am I here in this world?  This is my part, my small contribution to the Jewish nation and to the world. I need to show the world what Judaism is really all about.  

- E Gurevich -